The Effects of Hoof Trimming on Radiographic Measurements of Hoof Balance in Front Feet of Normal Dareh-Shori Horses

Abstract

Objective- This study aimed at investigating the effects of hoof trimming on radiographic measurements of hoof balance in front hooves of Dareh-Shori horse.<br />Design- Experimental study<br />Animals- 10 apparently healthy Dareh-Shori horses<br />Procedure- After cleaning and washing the horses hooves, hand-made block placed under the following limb. Lateromedial radiographS were made to get the desired measurements before and after trimming <br />Results- The following values have been acquired before and after trimming respectively: Dorsal Wall Length (8.83±1.19, 8.53±1.04 cm), Sole Length (13.69±0.94, 13.01±0.82 cm), P3 to Toe Length (1.37±0.62, 1.17±0.40 cm), Sole Thickness (1.15±0.45, 0.86±0.33 cm), Distal Interphalangeal Joint Height (4.06±0.44, 3.88±0.37 cm), Hoof axis (S) angle (50.05±2.21, 51.40±2.13), Third phalanx axis (T) angle (48.65±2.20, 50.60±1.72), P2 axis (U) angle (45.65±3.46, 47.90±3), H (T̵ S) angle (-2±1.52, -1.65±1.75), R (T̵ U) angle (3.30±2.95, 3.40±2.66).<br />Conclusion and Clinical Relevance- The results obtained in this study can be applied as a template in recognition and treatment of hoof capsule distortion. It can be put into practice before these distortions create pathologies that result in lameness, or before hoof distortion negatively affects performance.